Tried to career switch to tech thru bootcamp. Saw that jobs need a cs degree. Panicked n signed up for a cheap n fastest part time prof diploma + masters by lithan in collab w an italian uni. Its like the next 1 yr 2 mths is gonna be the biggest torture to myself. I havent found a job yet so i m gonna feel it when i am both working and studying. I can quit anytime since its paid by module but I can’t quit either cuz i won’t get this affordable price again and tech jobs always require degrees.
hey there, it sounds like you’re carrying a lot right now, and i just want to acknowledge how heavy this must feel . trying to change careers, dealing with the pressure of needing a degree, job hunting, and staring down an intense 14 months ahead… that’s a huge load for anyone. it’s completely valid to feel overwhelmed or even trapped in a situation like this.
what rlly stood out to me is your determination. even through all the fear and fatigue, you are clearly doing your best to build sth better for yourself. that says so much about your strength and commitment to your future, and you should be vv proud of that . but even the strongest people need rest and care too—burnout is real, and it doesn’t mean that you’re weak or not cut out for this.
it’s a good thing that you’re already aware that this next phase will be challenging. maybe you can plan ahead and put some small practices in place to support your mental health? even sth simple like a daily evening walk to reset your mind, or a firm “no work after 11pm” boundary, can go a long way! it’s also super impt to check in with yourself regularly to see how you’re coping mentally and emotionally, and to give yourself permission to pause if needed.
i was also wondering, do you have any support systems around you right now? eg. friends, family, or mentors that you can talk to? or perhaps others who are going through sth similar, like fellow career switchers? just knowing that you’re not alone in this journey can really help, and sometimes those people can help carry a bit of the weight too
you’re not alone in this. many people have walked similarly tough paths to switch careers and have found their way through, one small step at a time. i’m sure you will too. be kind to yourself while you’re working so hard. we’re here for you anytime you need to vent or talk ok
Hi! That sounds really tough right now :(. It definitely hasn’t been easy and I cannot imagine the stress that you are feeling at this point. Working + studying is super challening, I have seen it throughout my years of studies. But this shows how resilient and tenacious you are! This is not an easy route but you still managed to push through the first few months (or days or years, depending on where you are at). Cheering you on!
you’re so brave for trying to switch careers and doing your education part time!! as someone who is really indecisive and unsure about what i want to do, i really admire you for that :") finding a job definitely takes time, and if you are passionate about tech and what you’re currently studying go for it! i hope you find the strength to push through and continue your studies, as it’ll help you find a job that you enjoy in the future~ however, it is impt to make sure you pace yourself to avoid burnouts - take things one step at a time and speaking to industry professionals for advice could help you make a more informed decision about your career options!
cheering you on, you’ve got this!! sending you extra strength and positivity on your journey~~
Hello @user1138! Thanks for sharing your worries with us! As someone who went through a career switch too, I can resonate with the struggle. It’s not easy to juggle both work and school because I’ve been through that. There will be times whereby you’ll feel like giving up, but always ask yourself why you’re studying and working at the same time and.. also tell yourself that it will be worth it. Although things are going to be tough, remind yourself to take breaks as it is important and not a waste of time (that’s what i used to think) All the best !
what kind of roles are you looking for in the tech industry? having a good Github or Kaggle profile might help more than just the degree I feel.
Is Cs computer science? Yea its tough to juggle work and study indeed
hi @user1138,
I commend you for your courage at attempting a career switch! Signing up for a professional diploma and master’s program really shows your determination and willingness to invest in your future.
If you find the workload too overwhelming, consider taking a step back and evaluating your options. Since the program is paid by module, you have the flexibility to pace yourself according to what you can handle. . It is important to prioritize your mental health and well-being during this time.
Please don’t be too harsh on yourself and remember to take care. Your dedication and hard work will definitely pay off.
Wishing you the best for your diploma @user1138
Times will be tough but I believe you’re tougher, I believe in you! But yes, always remember to take regular breaks and seek support when you need to.
Hi @user1138,
I understand that career transitions can be daunting, and the pressure of juggling work and studies can feel overwhelming. However, I’d like to assure you that it’s a misconception that all tech jobs require a degree. While formal education can be advantageous, many employers in Singapore value skills, experience, and certifications just as much - sometimes even more.
The Singapore Government is actively working to enhance career prospects for individuals coming from non-traditional, vocational, or skills-based backgrounds. Through initiatives like SkillsFuture, TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA), and various workforce transformation programs, we are collaborating with industry leaders to provide jobseekers with alternative pathways into tech roles. Many successful professionals in the industry today have built their careers through certifications, bootcamps, and hands-on experience without holding a computer science degree.
If you are keen to grow in the tech sector, I encourage you to explore available reskilling programs, industry partnerships, and employer-sponsored training opportunities that align with your goals. There are multiple ways to demonstrate competence and secure opportunities, beyond just academic credentials. The journey may be challenging, but with perseverance, you will find a pathway that works for you.
Wishing you the best in your career transition!
Resources:
- TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA) | IMDA
- Career Conversion Programmes (CCP) | IMDA.
- Tech Immersion and Placement Programme (TIPP) | IMDA
- https://scale.nus.edu.sg/programmes/lifelonglearning/career-conversion-programmes/for-tech-professionals-job-redesign-reskilling
- SSG | SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme